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File #
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MEC No 2009
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Description
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This totally sealed prime mover converts DC
energy into mechanical work by using an
electrochemical cell which transfers
small amounts of stored hydrogen,
reversibly, across a membrane, resulting
in reciprocating linear displacement of
a diaphragm or piston.
The photograph shows the cross-section of a
3.3 cm diameter electrochemical motor
consisting of a transfer cell, a
diaphragm, a small hydrogen storage
and wiring.
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Advantages
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Electrochemical motors are current-driven devices
characterized by high efficiency, rapid
response to current signals and ease of
control. They are amenable to
miniaturization and unconventional
geometries.
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Applications
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The integral internal pressure sensor
provides information to a microprocessor
which controls the diaphragm (piston or
bellows), which can be accurately
positioned in a bilateral motion. This
powerful integration can be used for
applications such as:
- Electrochemical actuators for millimeter to
centimeter displacement
- Electrochemical pumps
- Electrochemical compressors
- Electrochemical valves
- Intelligent reactive force/pressure sensors
- Robotic effectors/gripper
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State of Development
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Proof of concept demonstration of a
battery-operated pump incorporating an
8-electrodes planar multijunction
electrochemical cell and an integral
electrochemical sensor, under microprocessor
control.
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Rights Available
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Exclusive or non-exclusive or specific
applications/markets.
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Support
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Technical assistance available.
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Patent Status
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U.S.# 5,149,413; 4,648,955; 5,038,821;
5,334,304. Foreign patents.
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Key Words
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Electrochemical motor, electrochemical actuators,
electrochemical valves, electrochemical
pumps, effectors, force sensor.
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Contact
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Dr. Henri Maget (ext.14) or Steve Swanson (ext.11)
Med-e-Cell
E-mail: inquiries@medecell.com
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